The Mediterranean • Mediterranean tastemakers • My Mediterranean, as told by Alexandra Manousakis
Meet Alexandra Manousakis, an artist, winemaker, ceramic designer and entrepreneur extraordinaire, who runs Maiami, a combined brasserie and artist studio in Chania, Crete. Born in Washington, DC, and now immersing herself in the Greek landscape, Manousakis’s intriguing fusion of cultures, her keen exploration of identity and her unwavering passion for artistic expression make her a compelling voice in Greece. Manousakis’s journey – from managing her family’s winery and fostering Maiami to developing a successful ceramics line and engaging with themes of ‘otherness’ and connection in her art – embodies a unique Mediterranean narrative. Here, she shares her experiences and favourite places around the Mediterranean, offering a fresh perspective on the region that has shaped her multifaceted career.
Portrait photography courtesy of Vicky Tsatsampa
… Greece, where I’ve spent the last 16 years of my life. My childhood summers were spent riding my bike in my father’s village, Vatolakkos, in the Chania region of Crete. Apart from the undeniable beauty of this country, it’s the simplicity of life here that truly captures my heart. Everyday life, food and routines are stripped down to their essence. There’s a uniquely human pace to life here, where the quality of life takes precedence. In a world increasingly cluttered by social media and overscheduling, Greece offers a chance to relish in simplicity, taking the time necessary to truly enjoy the simpler things.
… Athens, a city undergoing its own unique renaissance. The art scene is buzzing, with numerous exciting concepts being realised all over town, particularly within the food and wine scene. The city offers a wealth of vibrant activities, from museums and bars to theatres, and is conveniently just a 25-minute flight from Chania, enabling quick getaways.
… the Manousakis Winery and its vineyards. My winery is located in a small village outside of town, with our vineyards perched about 650 meters above sea level up the mountain. Living on an island blessed with both mountains and incredible beaches ensures I always have easy access to nature.
… my art studio and restaurant Maiami, which has a laid-back brasserie vibe and where I spend most nights. However, for those times when I crave a change of scenery, I visit my friend Kleopatra’s place, The Five, nestled on Nea Chora beach in Chania. As a committed wine lover, the unexpected thrill of Kleopatra, with her expert sommelier skills, surprising me with an intriguing glass of wine is something I truly relish.
… Justbrazil. It is my go-to, with a few locations boasting an excellent selection of clothes. My good friend Renata, the owner, has her own brand, Galeria, featured there, offering beautiful clothes and accessories. Another shop I frequent is August, conveniently located next to one of the Justbrazil locations.
… the palace of Knossos in Heraklio, which I’ve been visiting quite often recently. The archaeological site never ceases to fascinate me, bridging the past and present, as it does, by illuminating aspects of Ancient versus modern Greece that I’m currently exploring in my art.
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